In spring and preseason, the Panthers have shown little potential for the big play. That means they'll have to play mistake-free football to put a lot of points on the board.

Glance: After an up-and-down season last year, Nease should have more stability now. The Panthers used several players at quarterback last year but are committed to Joe Capriglione running the spread this year. He was one of Nease's quarterbacks even as a sophomore, but he's been solid in the starting role since the spring. That's good since Nease has little experience at the receiver position. What Nease does have at WR is depth. In the preseason game, five different players caught passes in the two quarters played by the starters. Four of those players caught at least two balls. ... Denzell Hayden will be a big part of the offense this year as well as a starter at safety on defense. Look for him to be a return man on special teams as well. ... Keeping Capriglione upright is a major concern for Nease.

The offensive line did well in that department in the preseason game against Clay. Leading that unit is underclassman Lucas Crowley, who was an All-County player last year and a major recruit. ... As usual, the Nease defense should be tough around the line of scrimmage. DL Aaron Williams is coming off a solid effort in the preseason. Nease did not allow the Clay starters to score in that matchup. Another top lineman is Blake McClain, who didn't play against Clay. He is big, strong and athletic enough that he was an outstanding basketball player as a freshman.